Essential advice for summer adventurers planning their maiden voyage
With summer approaching, thousands of Brits will be planning their first backpacking adventure abroad. But what many of them don’t realise is how quickly their dream holiday can turn into a disaster with just a few rookie errors.
“First-time backpackers often make the same mistakes over and over again,” says Andy Halliday, travel expert at Lexrope, a UK-based company specialising in outdoor camping gear and accessories. “The good news is these mistakes can be easily avoided with a bit of preparation.”
As backpacking season approaches, Halliday shares the seven most dangerous blunders new adventurers make:
1. Packing Like You’re Never Coming Home
The disaster: You’ll be miserable hauling your overstuffed backpack, might miss connections because you’re moving slowly, and could injure your back.
The solution: “Pack for one week, regardless of trip length,” advises Halliday. “Stick to quick-dry fabrics that you can wash in sinks. Most seasoned backpackers follow the rule: lay out everything you think you need, then remove half.”
2. Booking Accommodation Too Far In Advance
The disaster: Many backpackers miss amazing opportunities because they’re locked into non-refundable bookings in other cities. Some even miss once-in-a-lifetime events because they’ve pre-booked hostels across multiple countries.
The solution: “Book just your first few nights, then play it by ear. Booking apps make finding same-day accommodation easy. This flexibility lets you stay longer in places you love and quickly escape from those you don’t.”
3. Flashing Cash And Electronics
The disaster: Backpackers frequently become targets for thieves when they pull out wallets stuffed with local currency or constantly check expensive phones. You might be in danger of losing a week’s budget in seconds to skilled pickpockets.
The solution: “Keep money in multiple places, use a dummy wallet with just enough cash for the day, and be discreet when checking your phone. For valuables, use lockers provided by hostels, and bring a padlock or two along for hostels that offer storage without locks.”
4. Prioritising Photos Over Experience
The disaster: The social media era has created travellers who risk their lives standing on cliff edges for the perfect Instagram shot. Others spend entire meals arranging food for photos rather than connecting with fellow travellers or locals.
The solution: “Set limits for phone use. Maybe take photos in the morning, then put your phone away. The best travel memories are rarely the ones you’ve photographed.”
5. Ignoring Local Customs And Dress Codes
The disaster: Cultural insensitivity isn’t just embarrassing – it can land you in serious trouble. Backpackers who ignore dress codes at religious sites often face hostile reactions that can quickly escalate.
The solution: “Research basic cultural norms before arrival. Carry a light scarf or sarong that can quickly cover shoulders or legs when needed.”
6. Skimping On Travel Insurance
The disaster: Treating insurance as an unnecessary expense can lead to financial ruin. A broken bone without insurance can cost an exorbitant amount in emergency evacuation and treatment fees.
The solution: “Proper travel insurance isn’t optional. Make sure it covers adventure activities if that’s your plan. The £50 you save by skipping insurance could cost you thousands if something goes wrong.”
7. The “Follow The Crowd” Syndrome
The disaster: Sticking exclusively to guidebook recommendations means experiencing only what everyone else has seen – queuing for hours at tourist traps, paying inflated prices, and missing authentic experiences.
The solution: “For every famous spot you visit, explore somewhere not in your guidebook. Ask locals – not hostel staff, but shop owners or drivers – where they eat or spend their free time.”
Andy Halliday, Travel Expert at Lexrope, comments: “First-time backpackers often neglect safety, especially solo travellers. Always share your itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly. Consider using tracking apps that allow friends to see your location in real-time.
“Trust your instincts, as they’re often right. If a situation feels off, leave immediately. Make copies of important documents and keep emergency contacts accessible, including local embassy numbers.
“Don’t let peer pressure push you into uncomfortable situations. When things go wrong, keep perspective; that missed connection usually leads to the stories you’ll tell for years to come.”